The Briercrest College athletic department gathered at the Caronport Elementary School (CES) Friday, Sept. 9 for a morning of games with the elementary school students. Many smile were visible on all faces involved.

CES Principal Tammy Erskine was thrilled about the experience that was shared amongst the students from both institutions.

"It's not only a great way to share experiences and build community, but we are empowering our students by working together,” Erskine said. “Our college buddies provided stimulating activities and are positive role models for our students at CES.  This reinforces the importance of working together towards a common goal!”

One educator shared, "It is wonderful to see the bonds that form...it really brings out the best in the students."

Students made comments such as, "He makes me feel special; he says nice things to me! And "we do lots of fun things together.  She's my friend."

Erskine continued to explain the benefits of this type of interaction.

“Teachers reported that college buddies enhances children's cooperative learning behaviors such as taking turns, listening, sharing knowledge, praising another's effort, helping one another, and completing a task.  Students felt special!”

Briercrest Athletic Director Nigel Mullan shared how much the experience meant to Briercrest Athletics.

“I was so excited to see the interactions that were happening between the college and the elementary students,” he explained. “It was awesome to create some space to mix fun and games along with a positive experience for the elementary students. I so appreciate our college students taking time away from their training and school and for the elementary school to allow us to come and hang out with them for the morning.”

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